Highway 243 Climb: Banning to Idyllwild

Overview

Highway 243, the Banning-Idyllwild Panoramic Highway, climbs from Banning in the San Gorgonio Pass into the San Jacinto Mountains toward Pine Cove and Idyllwild. It is a long, steady, scenic climb with views back over the pass and, higher up, pine forest and granite. PJAMM describes the road as very good, with moderate and generally polite traffic, and riders often note how the views open up after the switchbacks low on the climb. For Inland Empire riders it is a big mountain day without the crowds of the San Gabriels.

The climb is long but rarely steep, which makes it accessible to riders who pace carefully and carry enough water. Many riders treat Idyllwild as the goal and make a day of it.

The route in plain words

Start in Banning and head south on Highway 243. The road climbs steadily through steep switchbacks low on the mountain with wide views back toward Banning, then continues into forest past the Lake Fulmor area before reaching Pine Cove. Idyllwild is a few miles further along 243. Most riders ride out and back. Strong riders can make a loop by continuing through Idyllwild to Mountain Center and descending Highway 74 toward Hemet, but that requires transport or a long return.

Distance and elevation

SafeStreetsMap measures the Banning-Idyllwild Panoramic Highway climb from Banning at 14 miles (23.2 km) with 3,301 ft (1,006 m) of climbing at 4.3%, from about 2,205 ft to about 5,505 ft, with a steepest half kilometre of 6.8%. PJAMM lists a longer Highway 243 climb to Pine Cove at 20.3 miles with 4,723 ft at 3.7%. Choose your turnaround and expect the numbers to vary accordingly.

Best time to ride

Spring and fall are ideal. Summer is very hot in Banning but pleasant up high; start early. Winter can bring snow and ice in the upper sections and chain controls; check Caltrans before you go. Fire season can bring closures in the San Jacinto Mountains.

Water and coffee stops

There are few services on the climb. Idyllwild has cafés, a market and restaurants; PJAMM recommends a stop at the Idyllwild Bake Shop and Brew. Banning has gas stations and markets at the start. Carry enough water for the full climb.

Fill every bottle in Banning before you start; on a hot day you will need more water than the climb's distance suggests.

Safety notes

Highway 243 has narrow or no shoulders in places, and some blind curves. PJAMM's contributor reported light traffic and good visibility, but conditions vary on weekends and holidays. Ride single file, use lights, and descend carefully: cold air and shaded corners can hide sand and gravel. Weather at the top can be very different from Banning.

Which bike and setup

A road bike with compact gearing and a 30 or 32 tooth cog handles the steady grades. Bring layers for the long descent. Good brakes and fresh tires are important for a descent of this length.

Before you go

Before a big mountain ride, have Veloaded check your brakes, tires and drivetrain. Book a tune-up in Santa Ana or call (714) 760-4908.

Quick facts

County: Riverside County (Inland Empire)
Start: SR-243 in Banning
Distance: About 14 miles (23.2 km) for the climb from Banning
Climbing: About 3,301 ft (1,006 m) at 4.3%
Surface: Paved mountain highway
Difficulty: Hard; long steady climb

Pair it with

Combine with Oak Glen across the pass for a two-climb weekend, or Temecula wine country to the south for an easier day.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Highway 243 climb from Banning?

SafeStreetsMap lists 14 miles with 3,301 ft at 4.3%; PJAMM lists a longer 20.3-mile climb to Pine Cove with 4,723 ft.

Is there food in Idyllwild?

Yes, Idyllwild has cafés, a market and restaurants; PJAMM recommends Idyllwild Bake Shop and Brew.

Sources

Distances and climbing are from the published sources listed above and are approximate; roads, closures and conditions change. Check current conditions before you ride.

More Riverside County / Inland Empire ride guides

All guides: Southern California ride guides. Veloaded Cyclery has one location, at 3420 W MacArthur Blvd Suite B, Santa Ana, CA 92704: service menu, bike fitting.